When I returned to saltwater I found it hard to believe that this is really all you need for filtration but it is true. The value of a
sump is that it increases the overall volume of the tank and it lets you stash equipment out of sight.
To cycle your tank I would start with the sand and rock in your tank. You can either start with all
LR or you can use some
LR and some dry or base rock. (Check TR sponsor Marco Rocks for super nice dry rock.) I like to drop a raw table shrimp in the tank for a couple of days to jump start the cycle but it is not strictly necessary. I have to say that I really like Eric Borneman's ideas here
The Building of a Reef (tank) and will probably do this the next time I cycle a tank.
